Date of Award

2015

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Sonia Zimmerman

Keywords

Certification; Education, Graduate; Games, Experimental; Occupational Therapy -- examination questions

Abstract

The purpose of this scholarly project was to create a novel, unique, and effective preparation tool for the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification examination.

A literature review of 40 evidence-based journal articles addressed adult learning principles; guidelines for facilitating learning; types of, advantages, and disadvantages of using gaming in higher education; and preparation methods for high-stakes examinations. Information reviewed also included current preparation tools; exam blueprint; and domain, task, and knowledge statements ofthe NBCOT certification examination.

An Open Book: NBCOT Exam Prep Game is a board game that can be used as a supplementary preparation tool for candidates who are preparing for the NBCOT certification examination. A board game was chosen for its ability to reduce anxiety, increase motivation to study, allow test takers to learn perspectives from one another, and increase confidence for taking an exam. An Open Book: NBCOT Exam Prep Game is designed to use group discussion, simulated exercise, problem-solving activities, case methods, and peer-helping activities to stimulate learning and provide the opportunity to apply knowledge required for passing the certification exam. Adult learning principles and concepts from the Occupational Adaptation model provide the foundation for the project design. The design of the game board and questions were developed with the blueprint of the NBCOT examination and the validated domain, task, and knowledge statements as foundational information.

Evidence in the literature supports the use of games in higher education to reduce anxiety, increase motivation to study, allow test takers to learn perspectives from one another, and increase confidence for taking an exam. The product of this scholarly project presents a social learning tool in the form of a board game that incorporates adult learning principles, concepts of the Occupational Adaptation model, and the NBCOT blueprint and domain, task, and knowledge statements reflecting current practice in occupational therapy. An Open Book: NBCOT Exam Prep Game is designed to supplement current preparation tools.

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